Devastation From Opioid Abuse Is A Painful Reality For Families Across America
‘I would like to commend the president for his continued commitment. When he visited us in the Senate earlier this week, he discussed the national epidemic and his administration’s efforts to fight back. Along with my colleagues, I stand ready to work with him on future proposals to provide necessary tools to protect our communities from this scourge.’
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding our nation’s opioid crisis:
“For families in Kentucky and across the nation, the devastation of opioid abuse can be a constant and painful reality. Communities are forced to endure grief, worry and loss. A recent report showed that my home state suffered more than 1,400 fatalities as a result of drug overdoses last year alone.
“Despite the troubling statistics, however, there are glimmers of hope. The Republican-led Senate has worked hard to pass important legislation like Jessie’s Law, the 21st Century Cures Act, and the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act. These measures are important steps that should lead to real progress. And there are many other important efforts across the country too.
“From coast to coast, we hear stories of men and women in recovery, managing their addiction. We are heartened by these testimonies that proper treatment offers real hope. They help remind everyone why we must continue to press forward. The task that remains is staggering. But we’re committed. And, later today, President Trump will help our country take another step forward.
“We expect he will formally recognize the opioid epidemic for the public health emergency that it is. This announcement builds upon years of progress that Congress has made to respond to addiction with comprehensive action including prevention, enforcement, and treatment. I would like to commend the president for his continued commitment. When he visited us in the Senate earlier this week, he discussed the national epidemic and his administration’s efforts to fight back. Along with my colleagues, I stand ready to work with him on future proposals to provide necessary tools to protect our communities from this scourge.
“A single bill or program is never going to solve this crisis on its own. Only a sustained, committed effort can do that. I am proud of our efforts to combat opioid addiction already. I also know that we will continue to push forward with continued collaboration with many groups – both in Washington and in states and communities across the country – so that one day we can finally say our country has beaten this crisis, once and for all.”
Related Issues: Opioid Abuse
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